[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 70 (Monday, May 21, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E872]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JEAN RUNYON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT T. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 21, 2001

  Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Jean Runyon, a woman 
with a remarkable career in public service. To say that Jean has a 
flair for politics would only begin to skim the surface of the many 
wonderful contributions that she has made to numerous causes over the 
years.
  Jean first got involved in politics during the 1948 gubernatorial 
campaign of Adlai Stevenson and has been a devoted social and political 
activist ever since. The best way to describe Jean's political 
interests and involvement is exhaustive. Jean's presence is a staple in 
the Democratic Party. She carries with her enough charisma to charm a 
crowd as well as the political savvy and dedication needed to fight the 
good fight.
  She has done everything from chairing the 1980 Kennedy Caucus to 
hosting political leaders at her home. In fact, the only thing that 
stretches farther than Jean's dedication is her knowledge of the 
political scene. By just glancing at her impressive list of political 
involvement, it is easy to see that Jean is a true champion of public 
service. Jean has been selected as a Delegate to the Democratic 
National Convention five times in the past 30 years, served as co-chair 
of the California Affirmative Action Committee in 1976 as well as co-
chair of the California Democratic Party Budget and Finance Committee 
in 1976.
  Over the years, Jean has been recognized by a host of organizations 
for her Herculean efforts. She was named Democratic Woman of the Year 
in 1975 and Key Woman of the Democratic Woman's Forum in 1960. This 
year, she is being recognized once more by the esteemed publication 
Asia Week for her many years of outstanding public service. As a 
founding member of the First Asian Pacific Caucus in 1976, Jean helped 
to pave the way for equal and just treatment of Asian Pacific 
Americans. Time and time again, she has succeeded in ensuring that the 
interests of the Asian Pacific Community are heard and protected. Jean 
has truly been a shining light that has inspired scores of youth to get 
involved in politics. I cannot think of anyone else more deserving of 
this honor than she.
  Jean's public involvement is not exclusive to strictly politics. She 
is an active member of numerous organizations including the PTA, ACLU, 
Women for Peace and the League of Women Voters to name a few. 
Furthermore, programs such as Meals on Wheels and the Women and 
Children Crisis Shelter would not have achieved the success that they 
have enjoyed without Jean's instrumental support.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Jean Runyon. Her continuous 
leadership is a true testament to public service. If a template of 
leadership could be made, it would certainly bear the resemblance of my 
friend Jean Runyon. Her career thus far as a social and political 
activist is commendable. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in 
saluting this truly remarkable political activist.

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